lump in back of throat

Diseases & Conditions GERD & Acid Reflux
1
I am new to this forum, and I am desperately seeking peace of mind.  I was just recently diagnosed with GERD by completing a barium swallow.  I took aciphex for a month, but noticed a numbing sensation in my arms and legs.  Stopped the medication and started having problems with my throat shortly after.  It feels like I have a lump in it, almost like my tonsils are swollen as big as my head!  I have a problem with anxiety ever since my 12 month old was born, so this feeling in my throat is making me lose sleep and I have a hard time wanting to swallow ANYTHING.  I started the aciphex again today to see if it helps heal my throat.  Really too embarrased to go to my doctor, due to the fact that he prescribed me zantac and I had side affects.  Feel like a hypochondriac!!  Has anyone else experienced this problem with the throat pain?  I do not have much heartburn or acid taste, so I don't understand the throat pain. 
 
Thanks,
Francine
2
Hi Francine!

Welcome to the GERD board!  I'm sorry you're having throat problems. 
 
It sounds like the lump in your throat is a result of your GERD.  Have you been on any other medications, besides Aciphex & Zantac?  There are many other medications for GERD that you can try.  Are you on any prescription medicine right now for GERD?  I'd call your doctor if you haven't improved within a few days.
 
And you are NOT a hypochondriac!  I know it's frustrating having all these side effects.  I must be the QUEEN of odd side effects.  Every time I have a reaction after taking a medicine, I'll tell my Dr., and he'll have never heard of that particular effect.  So I do know how you feel, but don't be embarassed by something you can't control.  Just explain to your doctor that you need a different medication.  I've been through numerous medications myself; sometimes it's hit-and-miss.  Just have to figure out what works for YOU.
 
I hope you feel better soon, and please keep us informed! :)

Toni

And days go by
I can feel them flying
Like a hand out the window in the wind
And cars go by
Yeah it's all we've been given
So you better start living right now
Cause days go by

3
Thanks Toni. It seems to me that the lump feeling in my throat is much worse at night, which in turn causes a huge amount of anxiety for me. Today is my second day back on the aciphex, so I will see how it does. If by next week things are not looking better, I will check with my doctor for a new medication. It is so good to know that I am not alone in the world of GERD!! Thanks again. I still might have more questions as symptoms arise.
4
No problem, Francine!  I'm glad to help!  Have you tried sleeping with extra pillows, or elevating your bed (easier said than done, I know!)?  Sometimes that can help with heartburn, so it might help with your lump. 

I hope the Aciphex helps and please let us know how you're doing!! :)

Toni

And days go by
I can feel them flying
Like a hand out the window in the wind
And cars go by
Yeah it's all we've been given
So you better start living right now
Cause days go by

5
I too have had the throat problem while on Zantac, Achiphex, etc.  It seems these drugs can cause Rhinitus.  I found that by drinking a lot of water and using saline solution sprays (in the nose) that it helps.  I will also go off the drugs, for a period of time, to help lessen the problem.  Do you find it is better first thing in the morning?  I have had other side effects from Achiphex, protonix, nexium, etc.  I am hypoglycemic and these drugs cause my blood sugar to drop way to low causing; palpitations, anxiety, pulsing in my ears, raised blood pressure, etc.  Those drugs also have a histamine blocker.  So, if you have a problem with that you can also have more side effects like myself.  The combined side effects,from those drugs, was worse then the reason for taking them.  So I have had to go back to taking just Zantac.  I was finally refered to a specialist, recently, about my stomach pain.  He said that what I told him sounded more like an ulcer then reflux or gerd so he is ordering more tests.  Isn't it funny how the docs will throw tons of meds at reflux or gerd but refuse to try meds for an ulcer until you've had a ton of tests?
6
Hi I sympathise with you I too had the lump in the throat with gerd but I have tried spring water or boiled and elavating the bed bland diet etc I have had stomach pains with medication but I am on the mend so go to your doctor and tell him your medication is not working!  He must try something else...Good luck to you

Gina t

7

Okay, I've got another question for everyone.  Using Zantac did anyone ever have the following side effects?

1. Feces color change to a gray-green color

2. Eye twitching, getting worse with longer exposures

3. Sudden breast growth, specifically one not both

 

Marcy

8
nono  Thank goodness no to all three I had the throat problems and pains in the stomach.  Hope u find out your cause.

Gina t

9
I have had stomache problems for several years. I have been taking emaprasole 40mg twice per day for the past 5 years, plus have a Hietus (not sure of spelling).  I have suddenly started to feel lumps at the very back of my throat and have a family history of throat cancer.  I told my doctor and he, without looking, told me not to worry and it was nerve endings.
 
Anyone else had anything like this.  I am starting to wrorry, it's not going away.
10
Hey have you try biopsy. To know whats going on really with your neck. Its better to know now. If you check it later then its too late.
11
Welcome pchielou,
Unfortunately, you have found an old thread that no one has posted on in two years. I don't know where the people are who posted here. They were here and gone before my time.
Please post a new thread to introduce yourself and any questions or concerns you may have.

Again, welcome.

Joy